Artifact Facts is where history meets faith. In each episode, Michael brings artifacts into the studio and reveals how they confirm and illuminate the Bible.
Table of Contents
EPISODE 1: The Jerubbaal Inscription | 15 Minutes
In 2019, archaeologists digging in Israel discovered the Jerubbaal Inscription—a find that directly connects to the book of Judges and the story of Gideon. Whys is this small broken piece of pottery so important and what could those letters possibly spell? Don’t miss out on the video to see visuals and Michael’s replica on the Jerubbaal Inscription!
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 2: The Ivory Pomegranate | 21 Minutes
Join Michael Lane in the studio as he guides us through the fascinating story of the Ivory Pomegranate—a tiny artifact with a big mystery. First published in Revue Biblique in 1981 and later brought to light in Biblical Archaeology Review, this small relic bears the divine name of YHWH. Could it have once crowned a priestly staff from Solomon’s Temple? Discover the story of its discovery, the dinner conversation that revived it, and why scholars believe it may date all the way back to the 9th century B.C. Don’t miss out on the video for visuals—you’ll want to see this one!
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 3: The Balaam Inscription | 16 Minutes
For centuries, scholars debated whether Balaam—mentioned in Numbers 22–24 and elsewhere in Scripture—was a historical figure or merely a literary construct. In the 1960s, a European research team excavating an ancient site uncovered 119 plaster fragments inscribed in Aramaic, interwoven with Canaanite (a Hebrew dialect). Among the writings was a striking reference to Balaam, providing tangible evidence that aligns with the biblical narrative. How do these fragments illuminate the historical credibility of Balaam and his story? Explore the significance of the Balaam Inscription in this episode.
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 4: Who Was Pharoah Shoshonq In The Bible? | 17 Minutes
In 1 Kings 14 and 2 Chronicles 12, Scripture records how both King Rehoboam and Jeroboam turned away from the Lord—and as a result, God allowed Pharaoh Shishak (Shoshonq I) to invade the Levant. But is there archaeological evidence to support this biblical account? In this episode of Artifact Facts, we explore the Shoshonq Victory Stela, a remarkable artifact unearthed at Tel Megiddo in the early 20th century. Once overlooked and discarded, this fragment bears the name of Pharaoh Shoshonq I and inscriptions solidifying his reign—offering compelling evidence of Egypt’s campaign in the region. Discover how archaeology, Scripture, and history come together to tell the story of Egypt’s power, Israel’s disobedience, and God’s sovereignty.
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 5: The Samson Seal: Strength Set In Stone | 14 minutes
The story of Samson tells of a man of incredible strength—one who tore lions apart and brought down temples with his bare hands. But could this legendary figure have truly existed? In this episode of Artifact Facts, Michael Lane investigates a remarkable 2012 discovery from Tel Aviv University: a small stone seal depicting a man battling a lion. Could this ancient artifact be evidence of the real Samson described in Judges 13–16?
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 6: Why Is The Jacob Scarab So Special? | 12 Minutes
Archaeologists have discovered possible evidence of Jacob, the father of the 12 Tribes of Israel. Numerous scarabs have been located and appear to have the name Jacob on these official seals.
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 7: Evidence of King Solomon’s Temple | 14 minutes
In this Artifact Facts episode, explore how a small shard of pottery from the ancient city of Arad—located 36 miles south of Jerusalem—helps confirm the existence of Solomon’s Temple. Arad, first settled by Canaanites around 3,500 B.C. and later captured by the Israelites, saw multiple cycles of destruction and rebuilding. In the 1960s, archaeologist Yohanan Aharoni unearthed over 200 ostraca there—inscribed pottery fragments used like ancient “post-it notes.” Among them, Ostracon #18 stands out as a remarkable piece of evidence pointing back to the First Temple on Mt. Moriah, offering a surprising glimpse into Israel’s history and the world of the Bible.
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 8: The Frankfurt Silver Inscription | 16 Minutes
An archaeological breakthrough was announced on December 15, 2024—the discovery of the Frankfurt Silver Inscription, a tiny silver phylactery packed with big implications. Inside is an early, almost word-for-word quote from Paul’s letter to the Philippians—shattering the popular claim that Jesus wasn’t worshiped as the Son of God until centuries later. This artifact pushes Christian history far earlier than critics suggest and offers thrilling confirmation of early New Testament belief. Join us as we explore how this remarkable find is reshaping conversations in archaeology and early Christian studies.
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 9: The Jezebel Seal | 13 Minutes
Most people know the names Ahab and Jezebel—but many don’t realize these infamous figures were real rulers of ancient Israel. Ahab’s existence has been confirmed through major archaeological finds, including his own signet ring discovered in 1964. But Jezebel? She remained a historical shadow—until that same excavation revealed an opal seal many believe belonged to the notorious queen herself. Designed to hang from a necklace, the seal even shows the break where a cord once ran through it. Join Michael Lane in the E4F studio as he walks us through this unique artifact!
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 10: The Uzziah Inscription | 17 Minutes
Ruling Judah over 50 years, Uzziah—also known as Azariah—was a godly king, a brilliant military strategist, and a ruler whose fame reached Egypt. But his final resting place was a mystery… until 1931, when Professor E.L. Sukenik discovered a burial plaque at the Russian Convent of the Ascension on Jerusalem’s Mount of Olives. Undocumented and astonishing, the inscription offers a rare glimpse into the life—and death—of one of Judah’s greatest kings.
To view the course on The Jerusalem Files: King David’s Tomb, mentioned in this episode, click here.
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
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EPISODE 11: The Ahaz Bulla | 15 Minutes
The King Ahaz Bulla is a rare artifact linked to Ahaz, a real king of Judah and descendant of King David—one of the most evil rulers in the land. Discovered in 1995, this clay seal once secured an official papyrus document and still shows the marks of the string that tied it shut. From a corrupt king to undeniable evidence, this tiny artifact speaks volumes.
To view the episode The Historical Jesus, mentioned in this video, click here.
Credits
CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 12: the Cyrus Cylinder | 15 Minutes
Discovered in 1879 at the base of the Ésagila temple, the Cyrus Cylinder records the rise of Cyrus, king of Persia, and the removal of King Nabonidus of the Chaldeans. It also notes that Nabonidus was absent when Babylon fell—leaving his son Belshazzar as co-regent, a detail echoed in Daniel chapter 5. In this episode of Artifact Facts, we examine how the Cyrus Cylinder bridges archaeology and Scripture.
Credits
Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 13: The Goliath Shard | 14 Minutes
Was Goliath just a myth? For nearly 3,000 years, there was no physical evidence—until 2005. During excavations at the ancient Philistine city of Gath, archaeologists uncovered a pottery shard bearing a name that appears to read “Goliath” in ancient script. Found in the very city the Bible says Goliath lived, this discovery marks the first time his name appears in the archaeological record. Watch as we explore what this small fragment reveals about biblical history!
To view the course on David and the Giants, mentioned in this episode, click here.
Credits
Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 14: The Nabonidus Chronicles | 16 Minutes
Daniel chapter 5 and the handwriting on the wall have long been criticized as legend. But an ancient clay tablet tells a different story. Discovered in the mid-1800s in modern-day Iraq and dating to 549–486 BC, the Nabonidus Chronicle records key events surrounding the fall of Babylon. Purchased by the British Museum in 1879 and later translated by Sir Henry Rawlinson, this fragment contains historical details that closely align with the account of King Belshazzar in the Book of Daniel. Explore with us as we examine how archaeology and Scripture intersect in one remarkable artifact.
For more on the archaeology surrounding the book of Daniel, check out our course “Archaeology on the Book of Daniel”.
Credits
Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 15: The Qeiyafa Ostracon | 16 Minutes
Discovered in 2008 overlooking the Elah Valley, this broken shard of pottery may hold one of the earliest Hebrew texts ever found. Written in ink over 3,000 years ago, its 70 preserved letters come from a time many believed writing didn’t yet exist in ancient Israel. What this text says—and when it was written—raises big questions about early literacy, biblical history, and the world of the kings of Israel.
Credits
Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
EPISODE 16: The Silver Scrolls | 16 Minutes
In this episode of Artifact Facts, we uncover the story of the Silver Scrolls—two tiny silver amulets discovered in 1979 at Ketef Hinnom on the western edge of Jerusalem. What started as a routine tomb cleanup by a 13-year-old assistant working with archaeologist Dr. Gabriel Barkay turned into a major archaeological breakthrough when a hidden burial chamber was exposed. Hit play and join us as we discuss this fascinating discovery!
Credits
Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
NEW EPISODE
EPISODE 17: Joshua’s Altar & Curse Tablet | 25 Minutes
In 1980, archaeologist Adam Zertal began excavating Mount Ebal, near the ancient city of Shechem—modern-day Nablusin the West Bank. After decades of little success by earlier researchers, Zertal’s team uncovered a large stone structure that took years to fully reveal.
Remarkably, the structure matches the biblical instructions for an altar: built from uncut field stones, with no iron tools, and accessed by a ramp rather than steps. Explore the archaeological details and the significance of this remarkable find!
To view the lesson, “Who Was the Pharoah of the Exodus?”, as referenced in this episode, click here.
Credits
Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Noah Sauder. Graphics & Publication by Noah Sauder. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5
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